Postdoctoral Research Associate, Child Welfare Research

Iowa State University•Ames, IA

About The Position

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will manage and analyze complex datasets and design, organize, and conduct advanced quantitative and qualitative analyses using established scientific methods and protocols. When appropriate, the researcher will develop and implement new analytical approaches. The role includes summarizing findings and preparing reports, manuscripts, and other scholarly products for publication and dissemination. The position offers opportunities to collaborate closely with faculty and staff, contribute to interdisciplinary research initiatives, and mentor students, research staff, and other junior colleagues in a collaborative and supportive research environment. The role is in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies within Iowa State University's College of Health and Human Sciences, whose work advances research, education, and outreach to improve individual, family, and community well-being across the lifespan.

Requirements

PhD in Human Development and Family Studies.
Demonstrated experience conducting child welfare research, including analysis of child welfare data and/or evaluation of child welfare programs and services.

Nice To Haves

Experience conducting quantitative data analysis using SPSS, SAS, or Stata.
Experience working with administrative data, including data cleaning, management, and analysis.
Experience conducting research or evaluation related to state agencies, public programs, child welfare systems, or other human service programs.

Responsibilities

Manage and analyze complex datasets.
Design, organize, and conduct advanced quantitative and qualitative analyses using established scientific methods and protocols.
Develop and implement new analytical approaches when appropriate.
Summarize findings and prepare reports, manuscripts, and other scholarly products for publication and dissemination.
Collaborate with faculty and staff and contribute to interdisciplinary research initiatives.
Mentor students, research staff, and other junior colleagues.

Benefits

Comprehensive medical and dental benefits.
Retirement benefits, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans.
Vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans.
Onsite childcare in Ames, Iowa.
Life insurance and long-term disability.
Flexible Spending Accounts.
Voluntary benefits and discounts.
Employee Assistance Program.
Wellbeing program.
WorkFlex options for some positions, offering flexibility on when, where, and how work is done.